Good Shepherd Gabriel
I’m Gabriel
My path to working with horses is unique in the sense that I wasn't raised around them. I was led to horses through my work in the mental health field, as a mindfulness practitioner, and understanding the healing modalities of the human mind have made it a perfect fit. I am certified in equine Shiatsu massage therapy.
My professional background has been in the creative visual and musical arts field where feel and instinct are what result in true creativity. I've found this same creative feel and instinct is present in how I approach working with horses. Constant observation of subtle shifts of energy. There is where communication is happening that is outside of language. This is the flow of energy that makes bodywork special and powerful. This is presence and patience.
“You can’t train a horse with shouts, and expect it to obey a whisper.”
Continuing Education
I’m currently working on a certification in the Masterson Method with a completion date of 2023. The Masterson Method is an even subtler approach to Equine bodywork in that you begin to recognize and use the responses of the horse to find and release tension. In contrast to traditional massage, it works subtly with the horse’s nervous system and the horse actively participates in the process. The focus is placed on tracing energy along the bladder meridian. It is something you do with the horse, rather than to the horse.
Volunteer Work
I currently volunteer doing bodywork and music therapy at Pregnant Mare Rescue in Watsonville, CA. Pregnant Mare Rescue is a temporary horse sanctuary committed to rescuing pregnant mares and orphan foals from abuse, and advocating for the humane treatment of all horses. Pregnant Mare Rescue is a Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries verified, 501(c)3 certified nonprofit. Consider donating to this important cause.
I previously volunteered at The Equine Healing Collaborative in Carmel Valley, CA. The Equine Healing Collaborative was created to provide a path to recovery, self-discovery, and personal growth through the use of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. Consider supporting the important work they’re doing.